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Surprise Bird Visitors Flock to UK Coasts
20 Nov
Summary
- Waxwings may arrive on UK east coast with easterly winds.
- Secretive woodcocks are harder to spot but peak in November.
- Over 230,000 wood pigeons were seen flying southwest last month.
As November progresses, the UK's autumn bird migration is largely complete. Summer visitors have departed for Africa, while many winter arrivals from the north and east have settled. However, specific weather patterns can still influence remaining bird movements, bringing unique species.
Waxwings are a highly anticipated sight, with good numbers reported in southern Scandinavia. Favourable easterly winds and clear skies could guide these striking birds across the North Sea to the UK's east coast. They are often found in noisy flocks, frequenting areas with abundant berries.
Woodcocks, secretive woodland birds, also migrate from Scandinavia, with their numbers typically peaking in November. Additionally, large movements of wood pigeons, typically not associated with migration, have been observed. Recently, an exceptional flock of over 230,000 wood pigeons was recorded flying southwest, with many expected to migrate to continental Europe for the winter.
